Despite the bad rap that millennials have gotten in the media, new research shows that they actually make really great employees. Millennials are always pegged as self-absorbed, lazy, and glued to their devices, but it turns out they’re incredibly dedicated workers, just not in the traditional sense. By 2025, millennials will make up nearly 75% of the workforce. Nearly 10,000 baby boomers are estimated to retire each day by 2020, so the turning of the tide is here. But the way people thought millennials would act in the workplace isn’t true at all. Millennial workers deeply care about the organizations that they belong to and it shows in their work.
In fact, millennials are willing to work even harder for an organization that supports them. A study called Generation Nation, found that millennial workers are more likely to spend personal time catching up on work to further the goals of a company they view values their efforts. This makes sense considering millennials are also a force of change within organizations today. They are more likely to push for things in the workplace that everyone benefits from, but not everyone will fight for. Though they’re willing to put in extra time outside the typical 9 to 5 shift, they also value a work-life balance. Millennials want to work hard and play hard which means they’re efficient and focused when on the job.
What major discovery is that millennials truly care about their work. They’re a huge contribution to any company because they want to add value and make an impact. As noted, they’re willing to go beyond standard work hours to make a difference in their organization and in the world. Millennials want to have a purpose when it comes to their work – whether that’s simply helping people or just being really good at what they do. Just like everyone else, millennials want to feel fulfilled and are willing to dedicate themselves to achieve that. Having a staff of millennial workers means that you can tap into this thriving workforce that wants to do the best job they can each and every day. Gone are the days when workers skate by until quitting time.
The key to harnessing this generation’s full work capacity is to invest in their development and success. They want companies that provide a sense of ownership to them through receptivity to input. Millennials are incredibly dedicated when they feel supported and valued. If they don’t, they aren’t afraid to look elsewhere for work. Last year, 31% of all managerial roles were filled by millennials and that number is only going to increase. Now is the time to figure out how to best engage this new generation of workers for the benefit of your organization.
If you’re looking for qualified talent or have any questions about how to attract the millennial talent, let MSB Resources help! Our years of experience in the industry can pair you with the perfect fit.